Early this morning, news broke that Allen Shellenberger, drummer and founding member of Orange County band Lit, died yesterday at the age of 39. Shellenberger was diagnosed with brain cancer in May of last year. A tribute video to Shellenberger was produced and played before Lit's show at the House of Blues Anaheim last month:
ALLEN SHELLENBERGER, DRUMMER FOR ROCK BAND LIT, SUCCUMBS TO BRAIN CANCER
Allen Shellenberger, drummer for Orange County rock band Lit, lost his
battle with brain cancer Thursday, August 13, 2009 surrounded by his
loving family, the band, and close friends. He was 39 years old. In
May 2008, Allen was diagnosed with a malignant glioma brain tumor and
immediately underwent clinical trials, chemotherapy and radiation
treatments at the Cedars-Sinai Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute.
Allen was a founding member of Lit over two decades ago and was able to
perform with the band until last fall. In a statement from Kevin
Baldes, Jeremy Popoff, and A.Jay Popoff, the band had this to say of
their longtime friend Allen:
“To know Al was to know laughter. He had a heart of gold and would do
anything for anyone. Words cannot begin to express how much he will be
missed. This was our brother and not a day will go by that we won't
think about him. Right now we're trying to find the balance of mourning
his loss and celebrating his life. Allen has experienced more in his 39
years than most people dream of in ten lifetimes. This is a tremendous
loss for us, our fans, and also for Allen's family who took such good
care of him during his battle with cancer.”
Allen is survived by his daughter Giovanna Mackey, his mother Connie
James, and his father Paul Shellenberger. Lit and Allen's family wish
to thank everyone who supported the benefits for Allen.
Funeral services will be private for family members only. Memorial event for Allen Shellenberger is pending.
